Imagine yourself following in the footsteps of Indiana Jones, venturing into the magical world of Jordan! Get ready to be whisked back in time by knowledgeable guides who bring ancient history to life. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling family adventure or a break from the ordinary with your travel buddies, Jordan is a destination that won’t disappoint.
This captivating country is more than just a holiday spot; it’s an adventure waiting to unfold. Hike through breathtaking landscapes, marvel at well-preserved ruins, and immerse yourself in a culture rich in history. You’ll be swept away by the captivating beauty of Jordan’s ancient monuments, natural wonders, and the allure of the Dead Sea.
Planning Your Jordanian Journey
This article details my recent trip to Jordan, filled with tips to help you plan your own unforgettable journey. I won’t bore you with facts you can easily find online. Instead, I’ll share personal experiences and insights from my travels. So, grab your hiking boots and let’s embark on this exciting adventure!
Journey Details:
- Country: Jordan
- Starting Point: Amman
- Ending Point: Dead Sea
- Travel Group: 5 adventurous travel buddies and me
- Fitness Level: Moderate
- Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
- Best Season: While summer and winter are popular, I prefer autumn and winter due to my personal heat tolerance.
- Airline: Air Arabia (with a stop in Sharjah)
- Clothing: Maintain a level of modesty, especially during winter.
Amman: A Blend of Old and New
Marhaba! Welcome to Amman, Jordan’s bustling capital, a city that gracefully blends ancient history with modern vibrancy. You won’t find women wearing burqas here, as Amman embraces a cosmopolitan spirit. Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Al-Osrah, followed by a journey through the lively streets to a high point offering breathtaking panoramic views. We then explored the Blue Mosque, the Roman Theater, and the Citadel, immersing ourselves in the city’s rich heritage.
Jerash: A Journey Through Time
The next day was filled with exploration. We embarked on a 4-5 km hike to Jerash, a spectacular Greco-Roman city that once harmoniously housed four different religions. Explore the majestic Hadrian’s Arch, admire the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Artemis, and wander through the expansive Forum’s oval colonnade. Jerash is a historian’s paradise, boasting 15 churches and two mosques. Don’t miss the enchanting fountain dedicated to Empress Domna, and ask your guide about the “Tetropillion,” a fascinating point where four countries meet. Take a moment to decipher the nature of shops in the Agora based on the ruins – a fun historical guessing game! We ended the day at Ajloun Castle, built by the Ayyubids on the ruins of a monastery. Be sure to admire the preserved mosaic floor and explore the museum with its fascinating artifacts from different eras.
Tipping and Local Customs
Remember, tipping is customary in Jordan, though it’s an unwritten rule. Guides are friendly and work on an hourly basis, expecting around 3-5 USD per person. The Jordanian Dinar is a strong currency, with 1 JOD equivalent to 101 INR. Be cautious of locals in tourist spots who might offer to take your picture in exchange for a tip. A selfie stick is a good alternative, or your guide will happily take photos for you.
Mount Nebo, Madaba, and Petra
The following day brought a blend of history and culture. We visited Mount Nebo, where tradition states Prophet Moses saw the Promised Land. Within the complex, a 4th-century church houses beautifully preserved mosaics. Take a leisurely walk to enjoy the breathtaking landscape and see the ancient olive tree. Our next stop was Madaba, a small town home to a sixth-century mosaic map of Jerusalem located within the St. George’s Church. Finally, we stopped to admire the world’s smallest hotel before reaching Petra, Jordan’s iconic Rose City.
Petra: A World of Wonder
Part 2 of my Jordan diaries will be dedicated exclusively to the breathtaking city of Petra, so I won’t delve into its wonders here. Let’s just say it’s a place that truly needs to be experienced firsthand.
Dead Sea: Relaxation and Rejuvenation
Your journey through Jordan isn’t all about constant exploration; it’s about finding balance. After days of active exploration, you can treat your weary limbs to the ultimate relaxation at the Dead Sea. It was a deliberate choice to design our itinerary to incorporate more active activities in the beginning and transition into a more relaxing pace as the trip progressed.
The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth and known for its high salt content (33%), which allows you to float effortlessly. This unique natural wonder offers a rejuvenating experience.
Aqaba and Wadi Rum: Adventure in the Desert
We were ready for a bit of desert adventure after our time at the Dead Sea. We rented a 4×4 jeep operated by local Bedouins to explore the Wadi Rum desert, a landscape sculpted by time and wind. The eroded rock formations and rolling sand dunes offer a breathtaking experience. If you have an extra day, consider spending a night in a luxury tent under a starry sky for an unforgettable experience.
Food and Drinks
Carry pre-prepared food if you’re vegetarian, as vegetarian options can be limited, often consisting of hummus, pita bread, and salads. While you can find vegetarian food at restaurants, it tends to be expensive. A decent meal can cost between 20-25 JOD (INR 2080-2600/- per person). Don’t miss trying their Turkish coffee, a flavorful delight.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Jordan offers a delightful array of souvenirs to take home. Consider purchasing dry fruits, sage tea, Ajloun olive oil, traditional Keffiyehs (scarves), hand-painted ceramics, spices, and Dead Sea mud packs. In Amman, explore the bustling Taj and Mecca malls, City Center, and Abdali Boulevard for international brands. If you use local taxis, always ask them to turn on the meter to avoid overcharging.
Accommodations
Here are some insights into our accommodations:
- Al Qasr Metropole (Amman): Convenient location, excellent breakfast, but rooms are small and showers could be improved.
- Guest House (Petra): Located near the visitor center, with upgraded rooms that are spacious. However, housekeeping needs improvement. The limited vegetarian options and communication challenges due to language barriers were drawbacks.
- Kempinski (Dead Sea): The highlight of our trip! Impeccable service, knowledgeable staff, breathtaking views, and private access to the Dead Sea. Don’t miss the Italian restaurant and the relaxing infinity pool. The chefs are eager to customize vegetarian meals upon request.
A Touch of History and a Farewell
Our driver shared a captivating story about Lot’s Wife, a tale woven into the fabric of the Dead Sea’s history.
Lot, Abraham’s nephew, chose to settle near Sodom, a city known for its wickedness. God, angered by Sodom’s sins, sent angels to warn Lot and his family to flee. As they left, they were cautioned not to look back. But Lot’s wife, unable to resist, cast a final glance, turning her into a pillar of salt. Today, a tall pillar near Mount Sodom is believed to be her petrified form.
As I conclude this journey through Jordan, I hope it inspires you to embark on your own adventure. This incredible country is waiting to unveil its secrets and captivate your senses. Cya for now, and remember, yours truly, Ms. Su, is signing off!
